Big guard from Harlem joins Storm

SUMMERSIDE – Louie McCroskey of Harlem, New York, will be joining the SummersideStorm National Basketball League of Canada team. Head coach and vice-president of player personnel, Joe Salerno, announced the signing of the six-foot-five shooting guard/small forward from Syracuse University on Thursday.

“We are very excited to have Lou this year,” said Salerno. “He is a proven player at this level, having put up good numbers as a member of the Quebec Kebs last season in the PBL (Premier Basketball League). Also having the experience of playing three seasons in the Big East with Syracuse, there is no question he is a competitor and as tough a customer as they come.”

McCroskey is described as a big guard who hands the ball well and can shoot from any range. A natural scorer at the shooting guard position, his experience, ball-handling and decision-making skills allow him to play point guard when necessary.

The Summerside team’s coach also notes that his new player is an excellent jumper, can get to the basket and create space to get his own shot. But he can also defend the 1-3 positions and is a good rebounder and shot blocker at the guard position. His proficient anticipation skills and long arms lead to a lot of steals and deflections, adds Salerno.

“Louie is a hard worker with unlimited potential.”

The 26-year-old player will join current signees Michael Dale, Mike Williams, Chris Cayole, Al Stewart, Eric Gilchrese, Troy Gottselig and Jessan Gray when the Storm kicks off training camp in Summerside in two weeks.

The Storm's first pre-season contest will be against the Halifax Rainmen at UPEI Oct. 21. The Storm will open the regular season at home against McCroskey’s former team – the Quebec Kebs – on Thursday, Nov. 3. Game time at Credit Union Place’s EastLink Arena is 7 p.m.

GETTING NEW COMMISSIONER

The National Basketball League of Canada will be announcing its first ever commissioner on Oct. 3.

NBL Canada president and CEO, Andre Levingston, said, “We believe this reaffirms our commitment to excellence in professional basketball and truly making this league one of the best in the world.”